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Miami, Florida, is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, but this city is just as alive during the day as it is in the evening. A melting pot of more than 60 distinct cultures, Miami has a vast range of attractions, and visitors can explore neighborhoods ranging from Little Havana to Coral Gables.

Outdoor Activities

Many of Miami’s beaches and parks are accessible only during the day, and state parks typically close at sunset. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, on the southern end of Key Biscayne, features the Cape Florida lighthouse, where visitors can get a free tour during the late morning and early afternoon. The Oleta River State Park has bike rentals and plenty of trails for an afternoon ride. Families interested in a day at the beach might want to head to Key Biscayne for its three miles of kid-friendly beachfront and nature center with exhibits and tours.

Art

Miami is home to a rich art scene with many museums and galleries, and you can spend a whole day here simply strolling through the exhibits. The Miami Art Museum, Lowe Art Museum and Bass Museum of Art have an eclectic variety of pieces. The Wolfsonian-FIU focuses on European and North American art from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. The Art Center/South Florida focuses on more modern works. Most museums close between 5 and 7 p.m., so start early to allow plenty of time for leisurely browsing.

Shopping

The Bayside Marketplace is an open-air shopping mall situated in a picturesque waterfront location on Biscayne Boulevard. Shops here range from specialty boutiques to mainstream chain stores such as Lady Foot Locker and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Children also will enjoy the carousel in the mall. Other popular shopping districts in Miami include Lincoln Road, Miracle Mile and Flagler Street.

Historic Miami

Miami has a rich history and serves as a melting pot of a multitude of cultures, which can be explored through a visit to the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. The Vizcaya Museums and Gardens offers a look at life here about a century ago. Built in 1916, the mansion and grounds have since been carefully restored. For a closer look at wartime history, you might be interested in the Wings Over Miami Museum, which displays aircraft from the world wars.

Tours

A variety of buses and boats offer guided tours of Miami. Popular stops on bus tours include the Holocaust Memorial, Little Havana and the Venetian Pool. Sightseeing cruises in Miami often take a tour around Star Island, where you can glimpse the homes of many celebrities. Guests on these boat tours also might spot dolphins jumping alongside from time to time.

About the Author

Mandi Rogier is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about a wide range of topics. As a previous employee of Walt Disney World, she enjoys writing travel articles that make use of her extensive knowledge of Orlando theme parks.